This Century-Old Audio Technique Could Be Key to Virtual Reality

Binaural audio sounds like a no-brainer. Humans have two ears, so we should record sounds with two microphones, right? But the late-1800s technique of sticking microphones inside a pair of life-like ears mounted on a fake head has never been more than a novelty. Which is a shame, because as you're about to hear, binaural audio sounds fantastic. Much better than 5.1 surround sound.

In a new feature story, The Verge explores the history of binaural audio and how it could be key to future virtual reality experiences. After all, if you want to fully engross someone in a moment, making them believe that they're standing somewhere they've never stood before, you need all the help you can get. Grab a pair of headphones and click the following bracketed link to hear how the past might inspire the future yet again. [The Verge]